Constructing an Islamic ethics of non-violence: the case of Bediuzzaman Said Nursi

Abstract

This thesis examines the late Muslim theologian Bediuzzaman Said Nursi’s ethics of nonviolence. It argues that the non-violent ethics of Bediuzzaman Said Nursi based on the Qur’an might aid in finding solutions to the global problem of religion and violence, particularly as it is experienced in the Muslim World. The research seeks to accomplish three objectives. First, this study aims to contribute to the increasing number of works in the area of Islamic ethics which are still minimal compared to the literature dealing with Islamic law. The second scope of this project therefore focuses on the examination of the ethics of non-violence as presented in Said Nursi’s writings. Though Nursi never applied violence and constantly encouraged his followers to avoid it, he is still not known as an Islamic figure who promoted non-violence. The third objective is to demonstrate the ambiguity within the Qur’an when it comes to defining a clear stance on violence. This will be evident through the juxtaposition of Said Nursi with Sayyid Qutb.